The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has taken decisive action against industrial units in Talawade’s red zone to address the rising pollution concerns in the Indrayani River. The move follows criticism of the MPCB for the increasing contamination in the river, marked by a persistent layer of toxic foam over the last few days.
The MPCB plays a vital role in environmental regulation and pollution control. As one of the key authorities, it enforces laws, monitors pollution, and initiates remediation processes. MPCB collaborates with stakeholders, emphasizing awareness, and exercises regulatory authority to ensure sustainable development in the state.
A recent inspection conducted by MPCB’s Member Secretary, Avinash Dhakane, revealed the challenges faced in accessing the Talawade area, home to approximately 300 small industrial units designated as a red zone by the defense ministry. Concerns have been raised about these units allegedly discharging untreated waste into the Indrayani River. Mr Dhakane mentioned that the initiative will specifically focus on addressing activities that need to be controlled within small illegal units.
To address this issue, MPCB, in collaboration with local police and the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), has announced the formation of a joint squad. This team will inspect these industrial units and take stringent action against those found violating pollution norms. Measures include disconnecting water and electricity supply as a means of enforcement.
During the inspection, both short-term and long-term measures were discussed, emphasizing the importance of understanding how these units acquire water and electricity. Mr Dhakane clarified that while untreated domestic waste significantly contributes to pollution within PCMC limits, pollution from illegal industrial units remains a concern that necessitates immediate attention.
In response to ongoing pollution issues in the Indrayani River, with citizens and environmental activists expressing growing concern, this latest initiative addresses the persistent challenges. The river, which flows through pilgrimage sites like Dehu and Alandi, has been subjected to untreated water, chemicals, and toxic waste from industries, as well as untreated water from laundries.
Earlier, in September 2023, the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) submitted a detailed project report to the Central government for the rejuvenation of the Indrayani River. The project, with a budget of ₹577.16 crore, aims to restore and clean the river, develop riverfronts, and evaluate the feasibility of a water transport system.
Despite these efforts, the recurring issue of toxic foam on the Indrayani River has sparked public outrage. Citizens and activists have called for immediate action to address the pollution problem, emphasizing the need for collaboration between various authorities, including the PCMC, MPCB, and PMRDA.
Addressing citizens’ concerns, Sanjay Kulkarni, head of the Environment department at PCMC, acknowledged the industries as the prime reason behind the pollution. He advocated for collaborative efforts among authorities to curb Indrayani River pollution, highlighting the readiness of PCMC to support MPCB in its actions.
